Lesson #2. Have a pet

There are two sides to having a pet.  The first is the why; they are fun, cute and great companions.  The second is the responsibility.  When you make the decision to get a pet, it should be deliberate and planned, never a whim because you saw something cute.  You should know going in that with pet ownership you are promising to take the good with the not so good.

Having a pet has some pretty cool perks.  They are cute and many of them like to cuddle.  They can be pretty, calming, or even interesting to watch.  They can provide unconditional love and companionship when everyone else seems far away.  They will make you laugh and it is likely that you will experience a great love.

Studies have shown that pets are a great counselor (they listen and don't judge) and supply health benefits.  It's been shown that they ease anxiety and lower blood pressure. Dogs can even act as a great security system.  They practice forgiveness regularly and are almost always happy to see you...even on your worst day.

But, like marriage, you must accept the fun and not so fun.  It takes financial responsibility to be a good pet owner.  The basic needs, like food, water and shelter, are just the beginning. Veterinarian visits can be costly and treats and toys are hard to resist even with the price tag looming.  Even caged animals need new bedding/rocks changed out regularly.  Just like people, pets get sick and injured and you have accepted responsibility as they cannot pay the bill or drive to the doctor.

Choosing the right pet for you is a huge piece to the puzzle.  Many of us grow up wanting a horse, but have to accept that a horse isn't reasonable for most.  Some people want a dog, but work alot and don't have the time to walk it and love it.  Pets suffer when they end up in the wrong home.  They are neglected and sometimes abused.  Their needs aren't met and they get bored and lonely.  If you will be gone much of the time fish and birds can be wonderful.  Tanks are soothing and birds can have a pleasant chatter if you like tweets and a little color to look at.  Do your research and make sure you can reasonably take care of the being you choose. 

Meeting needs above and beyond food and water.  Obviously, you can't walk a fish or play fetch with a snake, but many pets have bigger needs than a tank.  Dogs should be trained and taken on walks.  Cats and dogs should be spayed or neutered to prevent unexpected litters.  Pets need to be kept safe by keeping them leashed and away from plants or other toxins that can be harmful to them. 

Treat them well.  Keep litter boxes, cages or tanks clean.  Keep water available to them.  Speak kindly and don't harm them.  Take them to the vet when they are in pain and don't ignore them.  Don't scare them or tease.  They will love you and depend on you just like a child.  Don't take advantage of their unconditional love.  

Accept that you make have your heart broken.  Most people love their pets like a member of the family.  Dogs and cats can live for 15 years.  Bonds between you and your pet will be strong and when bad things happen to them, it can be devastating.  Sometimes, they get injured or sick.  Eventually, they will pass away and you will experience great sorrow.  

 ♥♥♥♥♥ Experience a pet.  Love them, care for them, learn from them. ♥♥♥♥♥

Here are a handful of cute sayings from "Things I learned from my dog"

1. When a loved one comes home, always run to greet them.
2. When it’s in your best interest, be good.
3. Let others know when they have overstepped boundaries.
4. Play, smile, and laugh daily.
5. Be loyal.
6. Never pretend to be something you are not.
7. Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
8. On hot days, drink lots of water.
9. When you’re happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
10. No matter how often you are scolded, don’t buy into the guilt thing and pout, . . . . run right back and make friends.